Views wanted on licensing applications

Tynemouth Front Street.

Residents are being reminded to have their say on how North Tyneside Council should treat any future licence applications for the Tynemouth area.

The authority is considering adopting a special policy of cumulative impact for the village as part of a review of its Statement of Licensing Policy after a request from some residents.

A cumulative impact – already in place in Whitley Bay – creates a presumption to refuse applications for new licences, or changes to existing ones, unless the applicant can show it will not add to the cumulative impact already being experienced.

Mayor Norma Redfearn said: “Tynemouth is a wonderful place, attracting tens of thousands of visitors each year – and it’s important it remains this way.

“In the best interests of the local community, we are seeking views on the introduction of the policy in Tynemouth and I would encourage residents to take this opportunity to comment.”

Comments should be sent to Licensing Section, North Tyneside Council, The Killingworth Site, Station Road, Killingworth, NE12 6UB, by May 9.

Alternatively email liquor.licensing@northtyneside.gov.uk

The mayor added: “The introduction of similar policy in Whitley Bay, which was created in response to concerns of the local community, has seen fantastic results; as well as being extremely well received by residents, alcohol-related crime and disorder has been significantly reduced.

“Evidence gathered before the introduction of the policy showed that the number and concentration of licensed premises in the area was having a detrimental effect on the prevention of crime and disorder and public nuisance – we do not want something similar to happen in Tynemouth.

“With our regeneration of Whitley Bay and the impact of the policy, we are beginning to see more families move into the area and it retuning back into a popular seaside town.”